April 11, 2013 By Christian Murray
Several Long Island City businesses are likely to start operating sidewalk cafes next month.
Sidewalk cafes, in most cases, are currently prohibited in Long Island City by zoning restrictions. However, that restriction is expected to be lifted next month when the New York City Council votes to amend the zoning code and approve their use.
The measure, which has been in the works for about a year, will permit sidewalk cafes on Borden Ave, 2nd Street, Vernon Blvd, Jackson Ave., Court Square (north and south), 44th Drive, 43rd Ave, Crescent Street and Queens Plaza.
The measure has been approved by Community Board 2 and went to the City Planning Commission on April 10. On April 30, there will be a city council public hearing—followed by a city council vote sometime in May.